Perhaps no one is better suited to tell the story of Second Genesis than current clients and Second Genesis graduates. 
This section will be continually updated with their stories, full of success and inspiration. 
Abby (Close to Graduation)

Abby was involved in an outpatient program, which she did not find to be effective.  After being involved with CPS, due to her newborn child testing positive to cocaine, she came to Second Genesis in fear of losing her child.  Here are a few of her comments, as she reflects on the treatment she has received at Second Genesis:

"If there was not a program designed for women and children, many more families would be torn.  I feel there needs to be more programs available like Second Genesis."

"Because of treatment, my entire outlook on life is brighter.  I can now see a future for myself, being drug and alcohol free.  I am no longer weighed down by the weight of the world.  My mind is free to dream of all the possibilities of a wonderful life for my family."

Abby was particularly affected by a Fetal Alcohol Syndrome seminar.  Here are her reflections on what she learned:

"If there were as many advertisements that dealt with the effects of alcohol during pregnancy as there were 'say no to drugs,' the public would be more aware of the serious risks involved with taking just one drink."

Cindy (Close to Graduation)

To view a recent article on Cindy, which was in The Capital, please click here.

Lucy (Graduate)

Lucy came to Second Genesis in August of 2002, and finished the residential treatment program in January of 2003.  She had her three children stay with her in the Second Genesis Baltimore House for Women & Their Children.  She had very little supportive family in the area because most of her family resides in the South.  Prior to coming to Second Genesis, she went to a short term treatment facility and came to an agreement with CPS that a long-term program would better suit her needs.  She reported that she was homeless before treatment, living wherever she could find a place.  Now, having completed the program, Lucy is clean and in school pursuing an A+ certification in computer technology.  She was also able to obtain a 3-bedroom house with the assistance of Second Genesis staff and another agency.

Temeka (Graduate)

Temeka came to Second Genesis in April of 2002, and finished the residential program around October of 2002.  Prior to entering the program, she had a long history of failed attempts at treatment;  she had lost parental rights of all of her children except her newborn, who she brought to treatment with her.  During her stay at the Baltimore House for Women & Their Children, Temeka  participated in GED classes and became a role model in the facility.  During her outpatient aftercare treatment, she came to Second Genesis on a regular basis to be supported, while she supported her inpatient sisters.  Meanwhile, Temeka  acquired a job at a fast food chain, where she is currently being considered for a management position.

Tori (Graduate)

Tori  is currently in treatment at the Baltimore House for Women & Their Children with two of her children, who range in age from 7-11.  Tori came to Second Genesis after being clean for 18 months before a relapse that resulted in her using for a year.  She was admitted to  another treatment facility for 14 days, after which she stated that she was scared that 14 days wasn't enough, asking for long-term treatment.  This is how she came to us at Second Genesis.  Tori describes her treatment journey by saying,

"It is painful going through the recovery process; however, it feels good to be clean and deal with my problems.  I feel that if I can get through the issues that I am working on here, there is nothing I can't do."

"I feel that I am talking about what I go through and it really helps me...I make better decisions and I am doing what I need to do for myself and my children."

A member of the Second Genesis staff, notes that,

"She has been motivated for change from admittance.  She expresses her thoughts and feelings and works hard to apply positive coping skills to her issues.  She presents as one who is using her relapse as a learning experience."
*With the exception of printed periodical publications, all names have been changed to protect the privacy of our clients.
 

Second Genesis extends our best wishes to all current and former clients.  We also invite you to share your story by sending a brief e-mail to information@secondgenesis.org.